Source: Health Products and Food Branch (CA) Revision Year: 2020
SIGNIFOR LAR is contraindicated in:
Bradycardia and PR Interval Prolongation: Pasireotide causes a decrease in heart rate and PR interval prolongation (see ACTION AND CLINICAL PHARMACOLOGY – Cardiac Electrophysiology). Careful monitoring of patients with a low heart rate at baseline (<60 beats per minute), a history of syncope or arrhythmia, ischemic heart disease, or congestive heart failure is recommended. Concomitant medications that decrease heart rate, prolong the PR interval and/or prolong the QTc interval should be avoided to the extent possible during treatment with SIGNIFOR LAR (see DRUG INTERACTIONS).
QTc Prolongation: Pasireotide is associated with QTc prolongation (see ADVERSE REACTIONS and ACTION AND CLINICAL PHARMACOLOGY – Cardiac Electrophysiology). SIGNIFOR LAR should not be used in patients with congenital long QT syndrome (see CONTRAINDICATIONS). SIGNIFOR LAR should be used with caution in patients who are at significant risk of developing prolongation of QT, including, but not limited to, the following:
Female gender and age 65 years or older are risk factors for torsades de pointes.
A baseline ECG is recommended prior to initiating therapy with SIGNIFOR LAR. Monitoring for an effect on the QTc interval is advisable approximately 21 days after initiating therapy and as clinically indicated thereafter. Hypokalemia, hypocalcemia, or hypomagnesemia must be corrected prior to SIGNIFOR LAR administration and should be monitored periodically during therapy (see WARNINGS AND PRECAUTIONS – Monitoring and Laboratory Tests).
Concomitant medications that cause QTc prolongation should be avoided during treatment with SIGNIFOR LAR (see DRUG INTERACTIONS). When drugs that prolong the QTc interval are prescribed, healthcare professionals should consider the nature and implications of the ECG changes, underlying diseases and disorders that are considered to represent risk factors, demonstrated and predicted drug-drug interactions, symptoms suggestive of arrhythmia, risk management strategies, and other information relevant to the use of the drug in consultation with the patient.
In clinical trials, adverse drug reactions (ADRs) of dizziness, fatigue, and headache were either very commonly (≥10%) or commonly (≥1%) reported with SIGNIFOR LAR treatment see ADVERSE REACTIONS – Clinical Trial Adverse Drug Reactions, Acromegaly and Cushing’s disease). SIGNIFOR LAR may have a minor influence on the ability to drive and use machines. Patients should be warned to exercise caution when driving or using machinery if they experience fatigue, headache, or dizziness during treatment with SIGNIFOR LAR.
SIGNIFOR LAR is contraindicated in patients with poor glycemic control (HbA1c values ≥8% while receiving anti-diabetic therapy) (see CONTRAINDICATIONS), as they may be at a higher risk of developing severe hyperglycemia and associated complications (e.g. ketoacidosis) (see ADVERSE REACTIONS – Abnormal Hematologic and Clinical Chemistry Findings, Glucose metabolism disorders, Acromegaly).
SIGNIFOR LAR can cause increases in blood glucose levels, which are sometimes severe. In pivotal trials, a majority of patients, including those with normal glucose tolerance, pre-diabetes, and diabetes experienced increased glucose levels, and developed pre-diabetes or diabetes when treated with SIGNIFOR LAR (see ADVERSE REACTIONS). Based on changes in HbA1c values, in drug-naïve acromegaly patients treated with SIGNIFOR LAR, 77% of patients with normal HbA1c (<5.7) at baseline developed pre-diabetes/diabetes at Month 12, and in acromegaly patients previously treated with somatostatin analogues, 61% and 50% of patients treated with SIGNIFOR LAR 40 mg and 60 mg, respectively, developed pre-diabetes/diabetes at Month 6. The degree and frequency of hyperglycemia observed in the two acromegaly pivotal trials were higher with SIGNIFOR LAR use compared to active control use (octreotide intramuscular or lanreotide subcutaneous injections). Seven acromegaly patients treated with SIGNIFOR LAR were hospitalized for elevated glucose levels; one of whom developed diabetic ketoacidosis (see ADVERSE REACTIONS, Abnormal Hematologic and Clinical Chemistry Findings, Glucose metabolism disorders, Acromegaly). In a pooled analysis of the two acromegaly pivotal trials, the overall incidence of hyperglycemia-related adverse reactions was 50.1% (all grades) and 9.1 % (CTC Grade 3 and 4) for SIGNIFOR LAR use versus 13.7% (all grades) and 1.1% (CTC Grade 3 and 4) for the active control. In the pivotal trial in acromegaly patients inadequately controlled on previous treatment with other somatostatin analogues, the proportion of patients not previously treated with antidiabetic agents who required starting of antidiabetic therapy during the trial was 17.5% and 16.1% in the SIGNIFOR LAR 40 mg and 60 mg arms, respectively, compared to 1.5% in the active control arm. In the pivotal trial in drugnaïve acromegaly patients, the proportion of patients who required starting of antidiabetic therapy during the study was 36% in the SIGNIFOR LAR arm compared to 4.4% in the active control arm.
In the Cushing’s disease trial, the prevalence of diabetes increased from 40% at baseline to 56% at Month 12. 44 out of 90 patients (48.9%) with no diabetes at baseline developed hyperglycemia during the trial. There were dose dependent increases in mean fasting plasma glucose (FPG) and HbA1c levels relative to baseline, which occurred early during treatment, continued throughout the duration of the trial, and were greater in patients with diabetes, followed by patients with prediabetes, then patients with normal glucose tolerance at baseline. At Month 12, mean percentage (SD) FPG increases from baseline were 33.8% (43.84) in the 10 mg group and 41.3% (49.3) in the 30 mg group, while mean HbA1c levels increased from a baseline value of 5.7% to 6.4% and 6.8% in the 10 mg and 30 mg groups, respectively, (see ADVERSE REACTIONS – Abnormal Hematologic and Clinical Chemistry Findings, Glucose metabolism disorders, Cushing’s disease). During the trial, the use of antidiabetic agents increased. At baseline, 76% of patients were not on any antidiabetic medication. At Month 12, 70% of patients were on at least one antidiabetic medication. Patients with uncontrolled diabetes were excluded from the trial (see CONTRAINDICATIONS). The overall incidence of hyperglycemia related adverse reactions was 76% (all grades), 22.7% (CTC Grade 3), with no Grade 4 adverse reactions reported. Two patients were hospitalized for elevated blood glucose. Adverse reactions of hyperglycemia and diabetes mellitus led to study discontinuation in 3 (2%) and 4 (2.7%) patients, respectively (see ADVERSE REACTIONS, Clinical Trial Adverse Drug Reactions, Glucose metabolism disorders, Cushing’s disease).
There have been post-marketing cases of ketoacidosis in patients taking SIGNIFOR LAR including in patients without a history of diabetes or without other underlying risk factors. In some cases, factors predisposing to ketoacidosis such as acute illness, infection, pancreatic disorders (e.g. pancreatic malignancy or pancreatic surgery), and alcohol abuse were present. Patients who present with signs and symptoms consistent with severe metabolic acidosis should be assessed for ketoacidosis regardless of diabetes history, and Signifor LAR treatment should be stopped with close monitoring of the patient. [M2.5 –Clinical Overview – Diabetic Ketoacidosis].
Glycemic status (fasting plasma glucose/hemoglobin A1c [FPG/HbA1c]) should be assessed prior to starting treatment with pasireotide. Once SIGNIFOR LAR treatment has been initiated, monitoring of blood glucose should be done weekly for the first three months and at least once monthly after a stable dose of SIGNIFOR LAR has been established. Weekly monitoring should be resumed for three months after a dose increase (see WARNINGS AND PRECAUTIONS – Monitoring and Laboratory Tests). If uncontrolled hyperglycemia persists, despite appropriate medical management, the dose of SIGNIFOR LAR should be reduced or the treatment with SIGNIFOR LAR should be discontinued. After treatment discontinuation, fasting plasma glucose and hemoglobin A1c should be assessed if indicated. Patients on anti-diabetic therapy discontinuing SIGNIFOR LAR may require more frequent blood glucose monitoring and antidiabetic drug therapy dose adjustment to mitigate the risk of hypoglycemia.
Suppression of anterior pituitary hormones may occur with SIGNIFOR LAR treatment. The decrease in ACTH (adrenocorticotropic hormone) secretion in acromegaly and Cushing’s disease patients treated with SIGNIFOR LAR can lead to hypocortisolism (see ADVERSE REACTIONS). In the Cushing’s disease trial, cases of hypocortisolism-related adverse reactions were reported in 12 (8%) patients, primarily adrenal insufficiency, serious (CTC Grade 3 and 4) adverse events were reported in 3 (2%) patients, and all cases were manageable by reducing the dose of SIGNIFOR LAR and/or adding low-dose, short-term glucocorticoid therapy.
It is therefore necessary to monitor and instruct patients on the signs and symptoms associated with hypocortisolism (e.g. weakness, fatigue, anorexia, nausea, vomiting, hypotension, hyponatremia, or hypoglycemia) (see WARNINGS AND PRECAUTIONS – Monitoring and Laboratory Tests). In case of documented hypocortisolism, temporary exogenous steroid (glucocorticoid) replacement therapy and/or dose reduction, interruption, or discontinuation of treatment with SIGNIFOR LAR may be necessary (see DOSAGE AND ADMINSTRATION – Recommended Dose and Dosage Adjustment, Cushing’s disease). Rapid decreases in cortisol levels may be associated with decreases in white blood cell count in Cushing’s disease.
Patients might present with deficiency of one or more pituitary hormones. As the pharmacological activity of pasireotide mimics that of somatostatin, inhibition of pituitary hormones, other than GH/IGF-1 in acromegaly patients or ACTH/cortisol in Cushing’s disease patients, cannot be ruled out. Therefore, monitoring of pituitary function (e.g. thyroid; TSH/free T4, adrenal; ACTH/cortisol, gonadal) prior to initiation of therapy with SIGNIFOR LAR and periodically during treatment should be conducted as clinically appropriate (see WARNINGS AND PRECAUTIONS – Monitoring and Laboratory Tests).
Patients with significantly increased values of prothrombin time (PT) and or partial thromboplastin time (PPT) (elevated by 30% above normal levels), or patients receiving anticoagulants that affect PT or PTT (e.g., coumarin-derivative or heparin-derivative anticoagulants) were excluded from clinical studies with pasireotide. Therefore, the safety of the combination of SIGNIFOR LAR with anticoagulants has not been established (see DRUG INTERACTIONS – Drug-Drug Interactions). If concomitant use of anticoagulants with SIGNIFOR LAR cannot be avoided, patients should be monitored regularly for alterations in their coagulation parameters and the anticoagulant dose should be adjusted accordingly (see WARNINGS AND PRECAUTIONS – Monitoring and Laboratory Tests and DRUG INTERACTIONS – Drug-Drug Interactions).
Increases in liver enzymes have been observed with SIGNIFOR LAR. In the drug-naïve study in acromegaly patients, ALT or AST elevation greater than three times the upper limit of normal (ULN) were observed in 9 patients (5.1%), ALT or AST elevation >5 x ULN were observed in one patient (0.6%), and total bilirubin elevation ≥2 x ULN were observed in 4 patients (2.2%) treated with SIGNIFOR LAR. In the trial evaluating patients previously treated with somatostatin analogs, ALT or AST elevations of >3 x ULN were observed in one patient (1.6%), ALT or AST elevations of >5 x ULN were observed in one patient (1.6%), and total bilirubin elevations of ≥2 x ULN were observed in 2 patients (3.2%) treated with SIGNIFOR LAR 40 mg. Total bilirubin elevations of ≥2 x ULN were also observed in one patient (1.6%) treated with SIGNIFOR LAR 60 mg. Overall, in both pivotal studies and across all doses, one patient (0.2%) had elevations of ALT or AST >20 x ULN and 2 patients (0.4%) had elevations of ALT or AST >10 x ULN. The overall incidence rate of liver safety-related adverse events was 5.3 per 100 PYE.
In the Cushing’s disease trial, hepatic safety results were consistent with those reported in the acromegaly trials. Transient increases in mean ALT and AST values were observed shortly after the initiation of treatment with SIGNIFOR LAR, peaked during the first month of treatment, were less marked in the 10 mg arm compared to the 30 mg arm, and returned to values close to those observed at baseline after Month 3. Mean values remained within normal ranges at all time. Increases in transaminases (ALT or AST >3 x ULN but ˂5 x ULN) were reported in 21 (14%) patients, with similar frequencies in both arms (13.5% and 14.5% in the 10 mg and 30 mg arms, respectively). Collectively in both the 10 mg and the 30 mg arms, seven patients (4.7%) had ALT or AST elevations >5 x ULN but ˂8 x ULN, one patient in the 30 mg arm (1.3%) had ALT >8 x ULN, and no patient had ALT or AST elevations >10 x ULN. In the 30 mg arm, total bilirubin elevations ˃2 x ULN were reported in two patients (2.6%), one of whom (1.3%) had ˃3 x ULN elevations. One patient had an increase in ALT/AST >3 x ULN with concomitant increase in total bilirubin >2 x ULN and ALP ≤2 x ULN (meeting the biochemical criteria for Hy’s Law, see WARNINGS AND PRECAUTIONS – Serious Warnings and Precautions), found only in the context of serious adverse events (SAEs) of cholelithiasis, cholecystitis, and pancreatitis, which recovered after discontinuation of SIGNIFOR LAR. Apart from this patient, no other patient had any grade 4 liver-related adverse events. Liver safety related AEs were reported in 30 (20%) patients, primarily elevated GGT (8.7%) and elevated ALT (7.3%) (see ADVERSE REACTIONS – Clinical Trial Adverse Drug Reactions, Cushing’s disease). One patient (0.7%) reported a SAE and four patients (2.7%; 2 in each treatment arm) discontinued due to hepatic safety-related adverse events.
Monitoring of liver function is recommended prior to treatment with SIGNIFOR LAR, after the first two to three weeks, at 3 weeks after each dose for the first 3 months on treatment, and then every 3 months thereafter as clinically indicated. Close monitoring should be resumed with any dose increase (see WARNINGS AND PRECAUTIONS – Monitoring and Laboratory Tests).
Patients who develop increased transaminase levels should be monitored closely until values return to pre-treatment levels. If elevations of ALT exceed 3xULN but are below 5xULN, repeat the test within 48 hours. If values are confirmed below 5xULN, keep on monitoring every 48 hours. If values rise to 5xULN or greater, discontinue SIGNIFOR LAR treatment. SIGNIFOR LAR therapy should be discontinued if elevations of ALT are 5 times the ULN or greater, if sustained elevations of AST occur, if ALT or AST elevations greater than 3 x ULN occur concurrently with bilirubin elevations greater than 2 x ULN, or if the patient develops jaundice or other signs suggestive of clinically significant liver impairment. Following discontinuation of treatment with SIGNIFOR LAR, patients should be monitored until resolution. Treatment should not be restarted. Concomitant medications with hepatotoxic potential should be used with caution during treatment with SIGNIFOR LAR.
Concurrent elevations of ALT or AST >3 x ULN and total bilirubin ≥2 x ULN, meeting the definition of Hy’s Law, were reported within 4-10 days of initiating treatment with SIGNIFOR s.c. formulation in 3 healthy volunteers and one Cushing’s disease patient. The cases had an early onset and the patient with Cushing’s disease developed jaundice. Liver test elevations resolved upon discontinuation of SIGNIFOR s.c. One Cushing’s disease patient treated with SIGNIFOR LAR reported concomitant elevations of ALT/AST >3 x ULN, total bilirubin >2 x ULN, and ALP ≤2 x ULN (meeting the biochemical criteria for Hy’s Law) in the context of SAEs of cholelithiasis, acute cholecystitis, and edematous pancreatitis (see ADVERSE REACTIONS, Abnormal Hematologic and Clinical Chemistry Findings, Liver enzymes).
Cholelithiasis (gallstones) have been frequently reported in clinical studies with pasireotide. Cholelithiasis was reported in 33% of drug-naïve and in 10% and 13% of inadequately controlled (40 mg and 60 mg dose, respectively) acromegaly patients treated with SIGNIFOR LAR in acromegaly clinical trials (see ADVERSE REACTIONS – Clinical Trial Adverse Drug Reactions, acromegaly). Cholelithiasis was reported in 33% of Cushing’s disease patients treated with SIGNIFOR LAR in the Cushing’s disease clinical trial, with an increased frequency in the higher dose group (20% and 45% in the 10 mg and 30 mg dose groups, respectively) (see ADVERSE REACTIONS – Clinical Trial Adverse Drug Reactions, Cushing’s disease).
There have been post-marketing cases of cholelithiasis in patients taking SIGNIFOR LAR resulting in serious complications including cholecystitis and cholangitis, which have sometimes required cholecystectomy. [M2.5 Clinical Overview – Cholangitis].
Ultrasonic examination of the gallbladder before, and at 6- to 12-month intervals during SIGNIFOR LAR therapy is therefore recommended (see WARNINGS AND PRECAUTIONS – Monitoring and Laboratory Tests). The presence of gallstones in SIGNIFOR LAR-treated patients is largely asymptomatic; symptomatic stones should be managed according to clinical practice. If complications of cholelithiasis are suspected, discontinue SIGNIFOR LAR and treat appropriately.
Elevations in lipase and amylase were observed in patients receiving pasireotide in clinical studies and were pronounced in patients with renal impairment (see WARNINGS AND PRECAUTIONS – Renal). Pancreatitis is a potential adverse reaction associated with the use of SIGNIFOR LAR due to the association between cholelithiasis and acute pancreatitis. Six (4%) patients treated with SIGNIFOR LAR reported pancreatitis-related AEs in the Cushing’s disease trial (2.7% and 5.3% in the 10 mg and 30 mg dose groups, respectively) (see ADVERSE REACTIONS – Abnormal Hematologic and Clinical Chemistry Findings, Pancreatic enzymes, Cushing’s disease). The elevations were reversible while continuing treatment (see WARNINGS AND PRECAUTIONS – Monitoring and Laboratory Tests).
Hypokalemia, hypocalcaemia or hypomagnesaemia must be corrected prior to SIGNIFOR LAR administration and electrolytes should be monitored periodically during therapy (see WARNINGS AND PRECAUTIONS – Monitoring and Laboratory Tests). Caution should be observed in patients with conditions that can lead to electrolyte imbalances (e.g., diarrhea, use of diuretics).
The use of SIGNIFOR LAR with drugs that can disrupt electrolyte levels should be avoided. Such drugs include, but are not limited to, the following: Loop, thiazide, and related diuretics, laxatives and enemas, amphotericin B, and high dose corticosteroids.
In a clinical study of single dose pasireotide s.c. 900 µg, in patients with various degrees of renal impairment, grade 3 and grade 4 increases in amylase, lipase and uric acid and grade 3 decreases in hemoglobin were observed in subjects with severe renal impairment and ESRD. Pasireotide must be used with caution in patients with severe renal impairment and ESRD (see WARNINGS AND PRECAUTIONS – Monitoring and Laboratory Tests, DOSAGE AND ADMINISTRATION, ACTION AND CLINICAL PHARMACOLOGY).
It is unknown whether SIGNIFOR LAR has an effect on human fertility. A reduction in growth hormone (GH) levels and normalisation of insulin-like growth factor 1 (IGF-1) concentration in female acromegalic patients could potentially restore fertility. Similarly, the therapeutic benefits of a reduction or normalization of serum cortisol levels in female patients with Cushing’s disease treated with pasireotide may also lead to improved fertility. Female patients of childbearing potential should be advised to use adequate contraception during treatment with SIGNIFOR LAR (see WARNINGS AND PRECAUTIONS – Special populations). Studies in rats administered pasireotide via the s.c. route have shown effects on female reproductive parameters (see TOXICOLOGY). The clinical relevance of these effects in humans is unknown.
Women of child-bearing potential: SIGNIFOR LAR should not be used in women of childbearing potential who are not using contraception, and for a period of approximately 2-months before conception. Animal studies have shown pasireotide to be harmful to the developing fetus. Women of child-bearing potential are recommended to use effective contraception during treatment with pasireotide (see WARNINGS AND PRECAUTIONS – Fertility).
Pregnant Women: SIGNIFOR LAR should not be used during pregnancy. There are no adequate and well-controlled studies in pregnant women. Studies in animals administered pasireotide via the s.c. route have shown reproductive toxicity (see TOXICOLOGY). The potential risk for humans is not known.
Breast-feeding Women: SIGNIFOR LAR should not be used in breast-feeding women. It is not known whether pasireotide is excreted in human milk. Available data in rats administered pasireotide via the s.c. route have shown excretion of pasireotide in milk (see TOXICOLOGY). A risk to the breast-fed child cannot be excluded.
Pediatrics (<18 years of age): SIGNIFOR LAR should not be used in pediatric patients. There are no clinical data available in patients under 18 years of age (see INDICATIONS AND CLINICAL USE – Pediatrics).
Geriatrics (≥65 years of age): There are limited data on the use of SIGNIFOR LAR in acromegalic patients and very limited data in Cushing’s disease patients older than 65 years. Clinical studies of SIGNIFOR LAR did not include sufficient numbers of patients aged 65 and over to determine whether they respond differently from younger patients (see INDICATIONS AND CLINICAL USE – Geriatrics).
Renal Impairment: No dose adjustment is required in patients with impaired renal function. SIGNIFOR LAR should be used with caution in patients with severe renal impairment and ESRD (see WARNINGS AND PRECAUTIONS – Renal, WARNINGS AND PRECAUTIONS – Monitoring and laboratory tests, DOSAGE AND ADMINISTRATION, ACTION AND CLINICAL PHARMACOLOGY).
Hepatic Impairment: SIGNIFOR LAR is contraindicated in patients with moderate or severe hepatic impairment (Child-Pugh B or C) (see CONTRAINDICATIONS).
Cushing’s disease: Patients should be evaluated for treatment response after the first month of treatment and periodically thereafter. Patients who do not experience clinical benefit from therapy with SIGNIFOR LAR should be considered for discontinuation (see DOSAGE AND ADMINISTRATION – Recommended Dose and Dosage Adjustment, Cushing’s disease).
Cyclosporine: Cyclosporine levels should be monitored to maintain therapeutic levels (see DRUG INTERACTIONS – Drug-Drug Interactions).
Electrocardiograms: A baseline ECG is recommended prior to initiating therapy with SIGNIFOR LAR (see CONTRAINDICATIONS). Monitoring for an effect on the QTc interval, heart rate, and AV conduction is advisable approximately 21 days after initiating therapy and periodically thereafter as clinically indicated (see WARNINGS AND PRECAUTIONS – Cardiovascular).
Electrolytes: Hypokalemia, hypocalcaemia, or hypomagnesaemia must be corrected prior to SIGNIFOR LAR administration and should be monitored periodically during therapy (see WARNINGS AND PRECAUTIONS – Cardiovascular and Renal).
Gallbladder Ultrasound: Ultrasonic examination of the gallbladder before, and at 6- to 12-month intervals during SIGNIFOR LAR therapy is recommended (see WARNINGS AND PRECAUTIONS – Hepatic/Biliary/Pancreatic, Biliary).
Glycemic Status: Glycemic status (fasting plasma glucose/hemoglobin A1c [FPG/HbA1c]) should be assessed prior to starting treatment with pasireotide (see CONTRAINDICATIONS). Monitoring of blood glucose should be done weekly for the first three months and at least once monthly after a stable dose of SIGNIFOR LAR has been established. Weekly monitoring of blood glucose should be resumed for three months after a dose increase (see WARNINGS AND PRECAUTIONS – Endocrine and Metabolism, Glucose Metabolism).
Hematologic: Regular monitoring of coagulation parameters (PT and PTT) should be performed in patients treated concomitantly with SIGNIFOR LAR and anticoagulant drugs (see WARNINGS AND PRECAUTIONS – Hematologic and DRUG INTERACTIONS – DrugDrug Interactions).
Hypocortisolism: It is necessary to monitor and instruct patients on the signs and symptoms associated with hypocortisolism (e.g. weakness, fatigue, anorexia, nausea, vomiting, hypotension, hyponatraemia or hypoglycaemia) (see WARNINGS AND PRECAUTIONS – Hypocortisolism).
Lipase: Lipase should be monitored prior to onset of therapy with SIGNIFOR LAR and periodically during treatment especially in patients with severe renal impairment and ESRD (see WARNINGS AND PRECAUTIONS – Hepatic/Biliary/Pancreatic, Pancreatic).
Liver Chemistry: Monitoring of liver chemistry is recommended prior to treatment with SIGNIFOR LAR (see CONTRAINDICATIONS). Liver function should be monitored after the first two to three weeks, at 3 weeks after each dose for the first 3 months on treatment, and then every 3 months thereafter as clinically indicated. Close monitoring should be resumed with any dose increase (see WARNINGS AND PRECAUTIONS – Hepatic/Biliary/Pancreatic, Hepatic).
Pituitary Function: Monitoring of pituitary function (e.g. thyroid; TSH/free T4, adrenal; ACTH/cortisol, GH/IGF-1, gonadal) prior to initiation of therapy with SIGNIFOR LAR and periodically during treatment should be conducted as clinically appropriate (see WARNINGS AND PRECAUTIONS – Pituitary hormones).
The safety profile of SIGNIFOR LAR is largely similar between the acromegaly and Cushing’s disease indications.
A total of 446 acromegaly patients received SIGNIFOR LAR in two pivotal Phase III studies, one in medically naïve patients (N=178) and one in patients inadequately controlled with somatostatin analogues (e.g. octreotide LAR or lanreotide) (N=125). Additional 81 patients randomized and inadequately controlled after 12 months on octreotide LAR in the former study, crossed to pasireotide LAR and were included in the pooled analysis as inadequately controlled patients.
In the pooled data from both pivotal studies, the overall incidence rate (per 100 patient-years exposure, PYE) of adverse drug reactions (ADRs) was 53.2; the most common (incidence rate >10) ADRs were hyperglycemia, cholelithiasis, diarrhea and diabetes mellitus. There were 5 ADRs (per 100 PYE) leading to study discontinuation and 39.2 requiring clinical intervention (dose adjustment/interruption or requiring additional therapy). Hyperglycemia-related (4.0 and 30.6) was the most common ADR leading to discontinuation and requiring clinical intervention, respectively. The overall incidence rate of serious ADRs was 4.1. The most frequent (>0.1) serious ADRs included cholelithiasis, diabetes mellitus, hyperglycemia, cholecystitis and cholecystitis acute. A total of five on-treatment deaths were reported, none suspected to be related to study drug.
The safety data reported below are based on the Phase 3 clinical study G2304 of 150 Cushing’s disease patients, randomized in a 1:1 ratio to receive starting doses of either 10 mg or 30 mg SIGNIFOR LAR every 28 days (q28d), with a possibility to up-titrate to a maximum dose of 40 mg SIGNIFOR LAR q28d after four months of treatment. The following safety analysis is based on data up to a time point when all patients had either completed 12 months of treatment or discontinued. The median duration of exposure was 14.8 months (range 0.9 to 45.8 months) for patients treated with SIGNIFOR LAR at the recommended starting dose of 10 mg q28d, and 12.5 months (range 0.9 to 42.6 months) for patients treated with SIGNIFOR LAR at the starting dose of 30 mg q28d.
The most commonly reported ADRs (incidence ≥20%) were hyperglycemia, diarrhea, cholelithiasis, and diabetes mellitus. The frequency and severity of ADRs tended to be higher in the group starting at the higher dose of 30 mg, but this was not consistent for all ADRs. The most common ADRs requiring dose adjustment (down titration) or temporary interruption were reported in 38 (25%) patients; the most common (incidence ≥2%) were adrenal insufficiency, diabetes mellitus, hyperglycemia, Addison disease, and blood cortisol decreased. Adverse events leading to study discontinuation were reported in 19 (12.7%) patients; the most common (incidence >1%) were diabetes mellitus, hyperglycemia, cholelithiasis, and alanine aminotransferase increased. Serious ADRs were reported in 12 (8%) patients; the most common (incidence >1% in all patients) were cholelithiasis [3 (2%)] and blood cortisol decreased [2 (1.3%)]. Two on-treatment deaths were reported (both in the 30 mg dose group), but none were suspected to be related to study drug.
Because clinical trials are conducted under very specific conditions the adverse reaction rates observed in the clinical trials may not reflect the rates observed in practice and should not be compared to the rates in the clinical trials of another drug. Adverse drug reaction information from clinical trials is useful for identifying drug-related adverse events and for approximating rates.
Adverse drug reactions reported with a frequency higher than or equal to 1% in the two pivotal clinical trials (Study C2305 and C2402, see CLINICAL TRIALS, Acromegaly), are presented below in Tables 1 and 2 by randomised dose group.
Table 1. Adverse Drug Reactions with a Frequency of Greater than or equal to 1% in the SIGNIFOR LAR 40 mg Group in the Pivotal Phase III Study C2305 in Acromegaly Patients:
| Adverse drug reactions | Study C2305 core and extension (mean duration of exposure 75 weeks) in SIGNIFOR LAR group Medically naïve patients | |
|---|---|---|
| SIGNIFOR LAR 40 mg* n (%) N=178 | SANDOSTATIN LAR 20 mg n (%) N=180 | |
| Blood and lymphatic system disorders | ||
| Microcytic anemia | 3 (1.7) | 3 (1.7) |
| Anemia | 4 (2.2) | 1 (0.6) |
| Cardiac disorders | ||
| Sinus bradycardia | 11 (6.2) | 8 (4.4) |
| Bradycardia | 5 (2.8) | 2 (1.1) |
| Atrioventricular block first degree | 3 (1.7) | 2 (1.1) |
| Endocrine disorders | ||
| Adrenal insufficiency | 2 (1.1) | 1 (0.6) |
| Gastrointestinal disorders | ||
| Diarrhoea | 59 (33.1) | 73 (40.6) |
| Abdominal pain | 23 (12.9) | 32 (17.8) |
| Nausea | 15 (8.4) | 26 (14.4) |
| Abdominal distension | 17 (9.6) | 17 (9.4) |
| Flatulence | 8 (4.5) | 11 (6.1) |
| Vomiting | 7 (3.9) | 10 (5.6) |
| Abdominal pain upper | 7 (3.9) | 9 (5.0) |
| Constipation | 5 (2.8) | 10 (5.6) |
| Dyspepsia | 3 (1.7) | 5 (2.8) |
| Abdominal discomfort | 4 (2.2) | 1 (0.6) |
| Gastrointestinal pain | 4 (2.2) | 1 (0.6) |
| General disorders and administration site conditions | ||
| Injection site pain | 13 (7.3) | 9 (5.0) |
| Fatigue | 8 (4.5) | 5 (2.8) |
| Non-cardiac chest pain | 2 (1.1) | 1 (0.6) |
| Hepatobiliary disorders | ||
| Cholelithiasis | 55 (30.9) | 66 (36.7) |
| Hepatic steatosis | 6 (3.4) | 6 (3.3) |
| Biliary dilatation | 4 (2.2) | 8 (4.4) |
| Gallbladder polyp | 3 (1.7) | 3 (1.7) |
| Cholecystitis | 3 (1.7) | 2 (1.1) |
| Cholecystitis acute | 2 (1.1) | 1 (0.6) |
| Hepatic cyst | 2 (1.1) | 1 (0.6) |
| Injury, poisoning and procedural complications | ||
| Post procedural diarrhoea | 3 (1.7) | 2 (1.1) |
| Investigations | ||
| Blood creatine phosphokinase increased | 17 (9.6) | 16 (8.9) |
| Blood glucose increased | 15 (8.4) | 6 (3.3) |
| Alanine aminotransferase increased | 10 (5.6) | 7 (3.9) |
| Lipase increased | 8 (4.5) | 9 (5.0) |
| Glycosylated haemoglobin increased | 10 (5.6) | 4 (2.2) |
| Electrocardiogram QT prolonged | 4 (2.2) | 8 (4.4) |
| Aspartate aminotransferase increased | 7 (3.9) | 5 (2.8) |
| Blood bilirubin increased | 6 (3.4) | 3 (1.7) |
| Weight decreased | 4 (2.2) | 3 (1.7) |
| Blood uric acid increased | 5 (2.8) | 1 (0.6) |
| Blood alkaline phosphatase increased | 2 (1.1) | 4 (2.2) |
| Blood triglycerides increased | 2 (1.1) | 3 (1.7) |
| Blood lactate dehydrogenase increased | 3 (1.7) | 1 (0.6) |
| Blood thyroid stimulating hormone decreased | 2 (1.1) | 1 (0.6) |
| Blood thyroid stimulating hormone increased | 2 (1.1) | 1 (0.6) |
| Bilirubin conjugated increased | 2 (1.1) | 0 |
| Blood amylase increased | 2 (1.1) | 0 |
| Lipids increased | 2 (1.1) | 0 |
| Metabolism and nutrition disorders | ||
| Hyperglycaemia | 50 (28.1) | 13 (7.2) |
| Diabetes mellitus | 35 (19.7) | 7 (3.9) |
| Type 2 diabetes mellitus | 11 (6.2) | 0 |
| Decreased appetite | 6 (3.4) | 5 (2.8) |
| Hypoglycaemia | 3 (1.7) | 7 (3.9) |
| Impaired fasting glucose | 6 (3.4) | 0 |
| Glucose tolerance impaired | 3 (1.7) | 1 (0.6) |
| Hyperuricaemia | 3 (1.7) | 0 |
| Hyperlipidemia | 2 (1.1) | 1 (0.6) |
| Hypertriglyceridemia | 2 (1.1) | 1 (0.6) |
| Musculoskeletal and connective tissue disorders | ||
| Arthralgia | 2 (1.1) | 5 (2.8) |
| Muscle spasms | 2 (1.1) | 4 (2.2) |
| Back pain | 2 (1.1) | 3 (1.7) |
| Nervous system disorders | ||
| Dizziness | 12 (6.7) | 12 (6.7) |
| Headache | 9 (5.1) | 14 (7.8) |
| Syncope | 3 (1.7) | 0 |
| Lethargy | 2 (1.1) | 0 |
| Skin and subcutaneous tissue disorders | ||
| Alopecia | 28 (15.7) | 26 (14.4) |
| Dry skin | 2 (1.1) | 0 |
| Pruritus | 2 (1.1) | 0 |
| Vascular disorders | ||
| Hypertension | 3 (1.7) | 2 (1.1) |
* Dose increase to 60 mg of SIGNIFOR LAR and dose increase to 30 mg of SANDOSTATIN LAR were permitted after the first three or six months of treatment (steady-state reached) if biochemical parameters showed a mean GH ≥2.5 microgram/L and/or IGF-1 >ULN (age and sex related).
Table 2. Adverse Drug Reactions with a Frequency of Greater than or equal to 1% in the SIGNIFOR LAR 40 mg or 60 mg Groups in the Pivotal Phase III Study C2402 in Acromegaly Patients:
| Adverse drug reactions | Study C2402 core (mean duration of exposure 24 weeks) Inadequately controlled patients | ||
|---|---|---|---|
| SIGNIFOR LAR 40 mg n (%) N=63 | SIGNIFOR LAR 60 mg n (%) N=62 | Active Control n (%) N=66 | |
| Blood and lymphatic system disorders | |||
| Anemia | 2 (3.2) | 0 | 0 |
| Endocrine disorders | |||
| Adrenal insufficiency | 1 (1.6) | 0 | 0 |
| Eye disorders | |||
| Eye irritation | 0 | 1 (1.6) | 0 |
| Gastrointestinal disorders | |||
| Diarrhoea | 7 (11.1) | 12 (19.4) | 1 (1.5) |
| Abdominal pain | 4 (6.3) | 3 (4.8) | 0 |
| Nausea | 1(1.6) | 2 (3.2) | 0 |
| Dyspepsia | 0 | 1 (1.6) | 0 |
| Tongue coated | 0 | 1 (1.6) | 0 |
| Abdominal distension | 1 (1.6) | 0 | 1 (1.5) |
| Abdominal pain upper | 1 (1.6) | 0 | 0 |
| Constipation | 2 (3.2) | 0 | 0 |
| Flatulence | 3 (4.8) | 0 | 1 (1.5) |
| Gastrointestinal pain | 1 (1.6) | 0 | 0 |
| Vomiting | 1 (1.6) | 0 | 0 |
| General disorders and administration site conditions | |||
| Asthenia | 0 | 2 (3.2) | 0 |
| Fatigue | 1 (1.6) | 2 (3.2) | 0 |
| Gait disturbance | 0 | 1 (1.6) | 0 |
| Injection site pain | 0 | 1 (1.6) | 2 (3.0) |
| Hepatobiliary disorders | |||
| Cholelithiasis | 6 (9.5) | 7 (11.3) | 8 (12.1) |
| Biliary colic | 1 (1.6) | 0 | 0 |
| Liver injury | 1 (1.6) | 0 | 0 |
| Infections and infestations | |||
| Pharyngitis | 1 (1.6) | 0 | 0 |
| Vulval cellulitis | 1 (1.6) | 0 | 0 |
| Injury, poisoning and procedural complications | |||
| Wound | 0 | 1 (1.6) | 0 |
| Sunburn | 1 (1.6) | 0 | 0 |
| Investigations | |||
| Blood glucose increased | 3 (4.8) | 4 (6.5) | 0 |
| Glycosylated haemoglobin increased | 0 | 2 (3.2) | 0 |
| Alanine aminotransferase increased | 0 | 1 (1.6) | 0 |
| Blood albumin decreased | 0 | 1 (1.6) | 0 |
| Blood alkaline phosphatase increased | 0 | 1 (1.6) | 0 |
| Blood creatinine increased | 0 | 1 (1.6) | 0 |
| Blood urea increased | 0 | 1 (1.6) | 0 |
| Blood uric acid increased | 0 | 1 (1.6) | 0 |
| Gammaglutamyltransferase increased | 0 | 1 (1.6) | 1 (1.5) |
| Glucose urine present | 0 | 1 (1.6) | 0 |
| Weight decreased | 0 | 1 (1.6) | 0 |
| Blood magnesium decreased | 1 (1.6) | 0 | 0 |
| Glucose tolerance decreased | 1 (1.6) | 0 | 0 |
| Metabolism and nutrition disorders | |||
| Hyperglycaemia | 21 (33.3) | 18 (29.0) | 4 (6.1) |
| Diabetes mellitus | 12 (19.0) | 16 (25.8) | 3 (4.5) |
| Glucose tolerance impaired | 1 (1.6) | 3 (4.8) | 3 (4.5) |
| Type 2 diabetes mellitus | 0 | 2 (3.2) | 1 (1.5) |
| Carbohydrate intolerance | 0 | 1 (1.6) | 0 |
| Diabetes mellitus inadequate control | 0 | 1 (1.6) | 0 |
| Impaired fasting glucose | 1 (1.6) | 0 | 0 |
| Musculoskeletal and connective tissue disorders | |||
| Arthralgia | 0 | 1 (1.6) | 0 |
| Muscle spasms | 1 (1.6) | 0 | 0 |
| Nervous system disorders | |||
| Dizziness | 4 (6.3) | 1 (1.6) | 0 |
| Headache | 1 (1.6) | 1 (1.6) | 0 |
| Psychiatric disorders | |||
| Restlessness | 0 | 1 (1.6) | 0 |
| Affective disorder | 1 (1.6) | 0 | 0 |
| Reproductive system and breast disorders | |||
| Erectile dysfunction | 0 | 1 (1.6) | 0 |
| Menstruation irregular | 1 (1.6) | 0 | 0 |
| Skin and subcutaneous tissue disorders | |||
| Alopecia | 1 (1.6) | 4 (6.5) | 0 |
| Vascular disorders | |||
| Hot flush | 0 | 1 (1.6) | 0 |
| Hypertension | 0 | 1 (1.6) | 0 |
All ADRs which occurred in the two Phase III studies with a frequency less than 1% were:
Cardiac disorders: Angina pectoris, conduction disorder, palpitations, supraventricular extrasystoles
Ear and labyrinth disorders: Hypoacusis
Endocrine disorders: Growth hormone deficiency, hypothyroidism
Eye disorders: Vision blurred
Gastrointestinal disorders: Dry mouth, frequent bowel movements, gastritis, haematochezia, pancreatic disorder, pancreatitis, steatorrhea, teeth brittle
General disorders and administration site conditions: Concomitant disease progression, induration, injection site mass, injection site nodule, malaise, oedema peripheral, thirst
Hepatobiliary disorders: Bile duct stone, biliary colic, deficiency of bile secretion, gallbladder disorder, gallbladder enlargement, hepatomegaly, hyperbilirubinaemia
Infections and infestations: Injection site abscess
Injury, poisoning and procedural complications: Procedural nausea
Investigations: Blood calcium increased, blood cholesterol increased, blood cortisol decreased, blood magnesium decreased, blood magnesium increased, blood sodium decreased, blood urea increased, blood uric acid decreased, electrocardiogram ST segment depression, electrocardiogram T wave amplitude decreased, electrocardiogram T wave biphasic, electrocardiogram T wave inversion, high density lipoprotein decreased, insulin-like growth factor decreased, liver scan abnormal, low density lipoprotein decreased, low density lipoprotein increased, protein total decreased, transaminases increased
Metabolism and nutrition disorders: Cholesterosis, hypercholesterolemia, hyperkalemia, hypoalbuminaemia, hypokalemia, hypomagnesaemia, hypophosphatemia, lack of satiety
Musculoskeletal and connective tissue disorders: Hypercreatinaemia, muscular weakness, musculoskeletal pain, myalgia, myositis, pain in extremity
Neoplasms benign, malignant and unspecified: Haemangioma
Nervous system disorders: Diabetic hyperglycaemic coma, disturbance in attention, somnolence
Psychiatric disorders: Depressed mood, insomnia
Renal and urinary disorders: Haematuria, nephropathy
Reproductive system and breast disorders: Benign prostatic hyperplasia, vaginal haemorrhage
Respiratory, thoracic and mediastinal disorders: Cough, hiccups
Skin and subcutaneous tissue disorders: Hyperhidrosis, rash generalised, rosacea, urticaria
Vascular disorders: Flushing
Adverse drug reactions reported with a frequency higher than or equal to 2% (in either the 10 mg or the 30 mg dose groups) in the Cushing’s disease pivotal clinical trial (Study G2304, see CLINCAL TRAILS, Cushing’s disease) are presented in Table 3 below by randomized dose group.
Table 3. Adverse Drug Reactions With a Frequency of ≥2% in the SIGNIFOR LAR 10 mg or 30 mg Dose Groups in the Phase 3 Study G2304 in Cushing’s Disease Patients:
| Adverse drug reactions | Study G2304 (mean duration of exposure 68 weeks) | ||
|---|---|---|---|
| Primary System Organ Class Preferred Term | SIGNIFOR LAR 10 mg n (%) N=74 | SIGNIFOR LAR 30 mg n (%) N=76 | Overall n (%) N=150 |
| Blood and lymphatic system disorders | |||
| Anemia | 0 | 4 (5.3) | 4 (2.7) |
| Cardiac Disorders | |||
| Sinus bradycardia** | 3 (4.1) | 4 (5.3) | 7 (4.7) |
| Ear and Labyrinth disorders | |||
| Vertigo | 2 (2.7) | 0 | 2 (1.3) |
| Endocrine disorders | |||
| Adrenal insufficiency | 3 (4.1) | 5 (6.6) | 8 (5.3) |
| Addison’s disease | 2 (2.7) | 3 (3.9) | 5 (3.3) |
| Gastrointestinal disorders | |||
| Diarrhea | 21 (28.4) | 27 (35.5) | 48 (32.0) |
| Abdominal pain*** | 13 (17.6) | 16 (21.1) | 29 (19.3) |
| Nausea | 11 (14.9) | 11 (14.5) | 22 (14.7) |
| Constipation | 4 (5.4) | 1 (1.3) | 5 (3.3) |
| Flatulence | 3 (4.1) | 2 (2.6) | 5 (3.3) |
| Vomiting | 3 (4.1) | 1 (1.3) | 4 (2.7) |
| Frequent bowel movement | 2 (2.7) | 0 | 2 (1.3) |
| General disorders and administration site conditions | |||
| Fatigue**** | 13 (17.6) | 8 (10.5) | 21 (14.0) |
| Hepatobiliary disorders | |||
| Cholelithiasis | 14 (18.9) | 33 (43.4) | 47 (31.3) |
| Cholestasis | 4 (5.4) | 2 (2.6) | 6 (4.0) |
| Gallbladder cholesterolosis | 2 (2.7) | 4 (5.3) | 6 (4.0) |
| Liver injury | 2 (2.7) | 2 (2.6) | 4 (2.7) |
| Biliary colic | 0 | 2 (2.6) | 2 (1.3) |
| Gallbladder disorder | 0 | 2 (2.6) | 2 (1.3) |
| Hepatic function abnormal | 0 | 2 (2.6) | 2 (1.3) |
| Investigations | |||
| Blood glucose increased | 6 (8.1) | 7 (9.2) | 13 (8.7) |
| Gamma-glutamyltransferase increased | 7 (9.5) | 3 (3.9) | 10 (6.7) |
| Alanine aminotransferase increased | 5 (6.8) | 3 (3.9) | 8 (5.3) |
| Glycosylated hemoglobin increased | 4 (5.4) | 4 (5.3) | 8 (5.3) |
| Aspartate aminotransferase increased | 3 (4.1) | 1 (1.3) | 4 (2.7) |
| Blood cortisol decreased | 2 (2.7) | 2 (2.6) | 4 (2.7) |
| Lipase increased | 0 | 4 (5.3) | 4 (2.7) |
| Blood creatinine phosphokinase increased | 1 (1.4) | 2 (2.6) | 3 (2.0) |
| Insulin-like growth factor decreased | 2 (2.7) | 0 (0.0) | 2 (1.3) |
| Metabolism and nutrition disorders | |||
| Hyperglycemia | 35 (47.3) | 35 (46.1) | 70 (46.7) |
| Diabetes mellitus* | 16 (21.6) | 22 (28.9) | 38 (25.3) |
| Decreased appetite | 2 (2.7) | 8 (10.5) | 10 (6.7) |
| Glucose tolerance impaired | 2 (2.7) | 3 (3.9) | 5 (3.3) |
| Hypoglycemia | 2 (2.7) | 2 (2.6) | 4 (2.7) |
| Hypercholesterolemia | 1 (1.4) | 2 (2.6) | 3 (2.0) |
| Musculoskeletal and connective tissue disorders | |||
| Back pain | 2 (2.7) | 1 (1.3) | 3 (2.0) |
| Nervous system disorders | |||
| Dizziness | 5 (6.8) | 0 | 5 (3.3) |
| Headache | 2 (2.7) | 3 (3.9) | 5 (3.3) |
| Dysgeusia | 2 (2.7) | 1 (1.3) | 3 (2.0) |
| Psychiatric disorders | |||
| Insomnia | 2 (2.7) | 0 | 2 (1.3) |
| Skin and subcutaneous tissue disorders | |||
| Skin exfoliation | 2 (2.7) | 4 (5.3) | 6 (4.0) |
| Pruritus | 1 (1.4) | 3 (3.9) | 4 (2.7) |
| Alopecia | 0 | 3 (3.9) | 3 (2.0) |
| Dry skin | 0 | 2 (2.6) | 2 (1.3) |
| Vascular disorders | |||
| Hypertension | 2 (2.7) | 2 (2.6) | 4 (2.7) |
* Diabetes mellitus consists of the two preferred terms: Diabetes mellitus and type 2 diabetes mellitus
** Sinus bradycardia consists of the two preferred terms: Sinus bradycardia and bradycardia
*** Abdominal pain consists of the four preferred terms: Abdominal pain, abdominal distension, abdominal discomfort, and abdominal pain upper
**** Fatigue consists of the two preferred terms: Fatigue and asthenia
The ADRs which occurred in the Cushing’s disease phase 3 Study G2304 with a frequency of ≥1% and <2% (in either the 10 mg or the 30 mg dose groups) were:
Cardiac disorders: Palpitations, arrhythmia supraventricular, atrioventricular block first degree, supraventricular extrasystoles
Endocrine disorders: Growth hormone deficiency, hyperadrenocorticism, hypercorticoidism, hypothyroidism
Eye disorders: Vision blurred
Gastrointestinal disorders: Breath odour, abnormal feces, ascites, defecation urgency, dry mouth, feces pale, hemorrhoids, edematous pancreatitis
General disorders and administration site conditions: Microlithiasis, edema peripheral, pain, discomfort, injection site hypersensitivity, injection site pain, malaise
Hepatobiliary disorders: Gall bladder polyp, biliary cyst, biliary dilatation, biliary tract disorder, cholecystitis, cholecystitis acute, cholecystitis chronic, gallbladder enlargement, hepatic steatosis
Infection and infestations: Gastroenteritis
Injury, poisoning, and procedural complications: Radius fracture
Investigations: Blood bilirubin increased, blood insulin decreased, hepatic enzyme increased, liver function test abnormal, amylase increased, blood corticotrophin decreased, blood glucose fluctuations, blood sodium increased, blood urea increased, electrocardiogram QT prolonged, electrocardiogram T wave amplitude decreased, electrocardiogram repolarization abnormality, hepatic enzyme abnormal, prothrombin time prolonged, transaminases increased, urine leukocyte esterase positive, weight increased
Metabolism and nutrition disorders: Increased appetite, dehydration, hyperkalemia, hyperuricemia, hypomagnesemia, hyponatremia, impaired fasting glucose, type I diabetes mellitus
Musculoskeletal and connective tissue disorders: Arthralgia, joint swelling, muscular weakness, musculoskeletal chest pain, myalgia, neck pain, pain in extremity
Nervous system disorders: Dizziness postural, memory impairment, somnolence
Psychiatric disorders: Irritability, anxiety, depressed mood, sleep disorder
Renal and urinary disorders: Acute kidney injury, nocturia, proteinuria, urinary incontinence.
Reproductive system and breast disorders: Menorrhagia
Respiratory, thoracic, and mediastinal disorders: Epistaxis
Skin and subcutaneous tissue disorders: Erythema
Vascular disorders: Deep vein thrombosis, hypotension, orthostatic hypotension
Elevations in liver enzymes have been reported in healthy subjects and in patients receiving pasireotide in clinical studies. Overall, in pivotal studies with SIGNIFOR LAR across all doses, one patient (0.2%) had elevations of ALT or AST >20 x ULN, 2 patients (0.3%) had elevations of ALT or AST >10 x ULN, one patient (0.2%) had elevations of ALT >8 x ULN, 11 patients (2%) had elevations of ALT or AST >5 x ULN, and 33 patients (6%) had elevations of ALT or AST >3 x ULN. Elevations in total bilirubin ≥2 x ULN were observed in 11 patients (2%).
Four cases of concurrent elevations in ALT greater than 3 x ULN and bilirubin greater than 2 x ULN have been observed with the paseriotide subcutaneous formulation. All cases of concurrent elevations were identified within ten days of initiation of treatment. Liver function test results returned to baseline values after discontinuation of treatment. One Cushing’s disease patient treated with SIGNIFOR LAR reported concomitant elevations of ALT/AST >3 x ULN, total bilirubin >2 x ULN, and ALP ≤2 x ULN in the context of SAEs of cholelithiasis, acute cholecystitis, and edematous pancreatitis. Grade 4 elevations of hepatic enzymes were reported on Day 500 of Study G2304. The treatment was discontinued, the patient underwent cholecystectomy, and the SAEs were resolved, with no liver enzyme values reported following discontinuation (see CONTRAINDICATIONS, WARNINGS AND PRECAUTIONS – Hepatic/Biliary/Pancreatic, Hepatic and WARNINGS AND PRECAUTIONS – Monitoring and Laboratory Tests).
Elevated fasting plasma glucose (FPG) was the most frequently reported CTC grade ¾ laboratory abnormality in both acromegaly phase 3 studies. In Study C2305, grade 3 elevated FPG levels (13.9-27.8 mmol/L) were reported in 9.7% and 0.6% and grade 4 FPG levels (>27.8 mmol/L) were reported in 0.6% and 0% of acromegaly patients treated with SIGNIFOR LAR and the active control, respectively. In the core and extension phases, adverse reactions of diabetes mellitus and hyperglycemia led to study discontinuation in 3 (1.7%) versus 2 (1.1%) patients and in 2 (1.1%) vs. 0% patients in the SIGNIFOR LAR and the active control arms, respectively. In Study C2402, grade 3 elevated FPG levels (13.9-27.8 mmol/L) were reported in 14.3% and 17.7% of patients in the SIGNIFOR LAR 40 mg and 60 mg groups, respectively, and none in the active control group. Hyperglycemia related adverse reactions led to study discontinuation in 6 (4.8%) patients in the SIGNIFOR LAR arms only; 2 (3.2%) patients in 40 mg arm and 4 (6.5%) patients in 60 mg arm.
In Study C2305, five acromegaly patients naïve to drug therapy exposed to SIGNIFOR LAR (two of whom were normoglycemic at baseline) were hospitalized for blood glucose in the range of 19.82-28.08 mmol/L and none in the active comparator group. Two additional acromegaly patients, who had received active comparator in the main trial and were switched to SIGNIFOR LAR in the extension trial, were hospitalized for elevated glucose levels while on SIGNIFOR LAR treatment during the extension; one of those patients developed diabetic ketoacidosis.
In both studies, mean FPG and HbA1c levels peaked within the first 3 months of treatment with SIGNIFOR LAR. The elevations of FPG and HbA1c observed with SIGNIFOR LAR treatment were reversible after discontinuation.
Elevated FPG was the most frequently reported CTC grade 3 laboratory abnormality (14.7% of patients) in the phase 3 Study G2304 in Cushing’s disease patients; with no cases of grade 4.
Mean HbA1c increases were less pronounced in patients who were normoglycemic at study entry in comparison to pre-diabetic patients or diabetic patients (Table 4).
Table 4. Changes in Mean HbA1c (±SD) at Month 12 According to Glycemic Status at Study Entry (Study G2304):
| Glycemic Status at Study Entry n=Number of Patients | 10 mg Q28 days | 30 mg Q28 days | ||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Baseline | Month 12 | Baseline | Month 12 | |
| Normoglycemic patients | 5.3±0.28 (n=35) | 6.4±1.31 (n=22) | 5.1±0.29 (n=31) | 6.5±1.07 (n=23) |
| Pre-diabetic patients | 5.8±0.33 (n=12) | 6.9±1.14 (n=8) | 5.7±0.25 (n=12) | 7.1±1.54 (n=9) |
| Diabetic patients | 6.1±0.67 (n=27) | 7.4±1.40 (n=18) | 6.2±0.69 (n=33) | 7.6±1.41 (n=21) |
Mean FPG levels commonly increased within the first month of treatment with decreases and stabilization observed in subsequent months, but levels remained elevated above baseline values throughout the duration of the study. Mean FPG levels were 125.6 mg/dL in the 10 mg and 128.7 mg/dL in the 30 mg arm at Month 12. Mean HbA1c levels increased at Month 2 and remained relatively stable thereafter. FPG and HbA1c increases were dose-dependent, and values generally decreased following SIGNIFOR LAR discontinuation but remained above baseline values. Adverse reactions of diabetes mellitus and hyperglycemia led to study discontinuation in 3 (2.0%) and 4 patients (2.7%), respectively. Two patients were hospitalized for elevated blood glucose levels below 500 mg/dL, and no patient developed diabetic ketoacidosis. These two patients discontinued treatment due to SAEs of hyperglycemia and exacerbation of diabetes, respectively.
Monitoring of blood glucose levels in patients is required prior to and during treatment with SIGNIFOR LAR (see CONTRAINDICATIONS, WARNINGS AND PRECAUTIONS, and WARNINGS AND PRECAUTIONS – Monitoring and Laboratory Tests).
In the drug-naïve Study C2305, asymptomatic elevations in lipase and alpha amylase were observed in 31% and 24% of patients. In Study C2402 evaluating patients previously treated with somatostatin analogs, asymptomatic elevations in alpha amylase were reported in 10% in the 40 mg arm and in 5% in the 60 mg arm. Asymptomatic elevations in lipase were reported only in the 40 mg arm in 2% of patients. The overall incidence rate of pancreatitis-related adverse events was 5.9 per 100 PYE in both phase 3 studies and across all doses.
In the Cushing’s disease Study G2304, elevations in lipase and amylase (all grades) were reported in 6 (4%) and 1 (0.7%) patients, respectively. Grade 3 elevations in lipase were reported in 3 (2%) patients (2 (2.7%) and 1 (1.3%) in the 10 mg and 30 mg dose groups, respectively), and grade 3 elevations in amylase were reported in 1 (0.7%) patient in the 30 mg group. There were no grade 4 events reported. These laboratory abnormalities were reported as pancreatitisrelated adverse events in a total 6 (4%) patients (2 (2.7%) and 4 (5.3%) in the 10 mg and 30 mg dose groups, respectively) (see WARNINGS AND PRECAUTIONS – Monitoring and Laboratory Tests).
Pancreatitis is a potential adverse reaction associated with the use of somatostatin analogs due to the association between cholelithiasis and acute pancreatitis.
In the two phase 3 acromegaly trials, a corrected QT interval (i.e., QTcF) of greater than 480 ms was reported in four patients administered SIGNIFOR LAR (3 patients in Study C2305 and one patient in Study C2402 in the 40 mg group) and an increase in the QTcF from baseline of greater than 60 ms was reported for two patients taking SIGNIFOR LAR in Study C2305 (see ADVERSE REACTIONS, Clinical Trial Adverse Drug Reactions, Acromegaly and CLINICAL TRIALS, Acromegaly).
In Study G2304 in Cushing’s disease, 2 (1.3%) patients experienced a QTcF value >480 ms and an increase in the QTcF from baseline of >60 ms was reported for 5 (3.3%) patients administered SIGNIFOR LAR (see ADVERSE REACTIONS, Clinical Trial Adverse Drug Reactions, Cushing’s disease and CLINICAL TRIALS, Cushing’s disease).
No patient administered SIGNIFOR LAR had a QTcF value of >500 ms in any of the pivotal clinical studies.
The following adverse drug reactions have been derived from post-marketing experience with SIGNIFOR LAR. Because these reactions were reported voluntarily from a population of uncertain size, it is not possible to reliably estimate their frequency Metabolism and nutrition disorders: Diabetic ketoacidosis. Hepatobiliary Disorders: Cholangitis [M2.5 Clinical Overview – Diabetic Ketoacidosis].
Caution is required when co-administering SIGNIFOR LAR with drugs that are known to have hepatotoxic potential, or with anti-arrhythmic medicines and other drugs that may prolong the QT interval (see WARNINGS AND PRECAUTIONS). Medications that may disrupt electrolyte levels should be avoided when using SIGNIFOR LAR.
In vitro assessment of drug interactions:
Pasireotide appears to be a substrate of efflux transporter P-gp (P-glycoprotein), but is not an inducer of P-gp. In addition, at therapeutic dose levels, pasireotide is not expected to be:
No clinical drug-drug interaction studies have been performed with SIGNIFOR LAR.
General: The lists below of potentially interacting drugs are not comprehensive. Current information sources should be consulted for newly approved drugs that prolong the QTc interval, decrease heart rate, prolong the PR interval, or cause electrolyte disturbances, as well as for older drugs for which these effects have recently been established.
QTc-Prolonging Drugs: The concomitant use of SIGNIFOR LAR with another QTc-prolonging drug should be avoided (see WARNINGS AND PRECAUTIONS – Cardiovascular and Monitoring and Laboratory Tests; ADVERSE REACTIONS and ACTIONS AND CLINICAL PHARMACOLOGY – Cardiac Electrophysiology). Drugs that have been associated with QTc interval prolongation and/or torsades de pointes include, but are not limited to, the examples in the following list. Chemical/ pharmacological classes are listed if some, although not necessarily all, class members have been implicated in QTc prolongation and/or torsades de pointes:
Drugs that Decrease Heart Rate and/or Prolong the PR Interval: SIGNIFOR LAR results in a decrease in heart rate and an increase in the PR interval (see WARNINGS AND PRECAUTIONS – Cardiovascular and Monitoring and Laboratory Tests; ADVERSE REACTIONS – Electrocardiography and ACTIONS AND CLINICAL PHARMACOLOGY – Cardiac Electrophysiology). The concomitant use of SIGNIFOR LAR with other drugs that lower heart rate and/or prolong the PR interval, including, but not limited to, antiarrhythmics, beta blockers, non-dihydropyridine calcium channel blockers, digitalis glycosides, alpha2-adrenoceptor agonists, cholinesterase inhibitors, sphingosine-1 phosphate receptor modulators, and HIV protease inhibitors, should be avoided.
P-gp Substrate Interactions: Pasireotide appears to be a substrate of efflux transporter P-gp (Pglycoprotein) but is not an inducer of P-gp.
The influence of a P-gp inhibitor on the pharmacokinetics of subcutaneous pasireotide (600 μg, single dose) was tested in a drug-drug interaction study with co-administration of verapamil sustained release formulation (SR) (240 mg, multiple dose) in healthy volunteers. No change in the rate of pasireotide absorption and elimination or extent of exposure following concomitant administration with verapamil SR was observed. However, grade 3 neutropenia, grade 3 lymphopenia, as well as grade 4 lipase and creatine phosphokinase (CPK) increase were observed in some subjects on co-administration. Co-administration of pasireotide with nondihydropyridine calcium channel blockers such as verapamil should be avoided because of the risk of pharmacodynamic interactions affecting atrioventricular conduction (see DRUG INTERACTIONS – Drug-Drug Interactions).
The potential for other strong P-gp inhibitors such as ketoconazole, cyclosporine, clarithromycin, to increase concentrations of pasireotide is unknown.
The use of SIGNIFOR LAR with drugs that can disrupt electrolyte levels should be avoided. Such drugs include, but are not limited to loop, thiazide, and related diuretics; laxatives and enemas; amphotericin B; and high dose corticosteroids.
Anticoagulants: The safety of the combination of SIGNIFOR LAR with anticoagulants has not been established. If concomitant use of anticoagulants with SIGNIFOR LAR cannot be avoided, coagulation parameters should be monitored regularly and the anticoagulant dose should be revised accordingly (see WARNINGS AND PRECAUTIONS – Hematologic and MONITORING AND LABORATORY TESTS, Hematologic).
Anti-Diabetics/Insulin: Dose adjustments (decrease or increase) of insulin and anti-diabetic products may be required when administered concomitantly with pasireotide (see WARNINGS AND PRECAUTIONS – Endocrine and Metabolism, Glucose metabolism).
Bromocriptine: Coadministration of SIGNIFOR LAR with bromocriptine may increase the blood levels of bromocriptine. Dose reduction of bromocriptine may be necessary.
Cyclosporine: Concomitant administration of cyclosporine with SIGNIFOR LAR may decrease the relative bioavailability of cyclosporine and, therefore, consider monitoring and dose adjustment of cyclosporine to maintain therapeutic levels (see WARNINGS AND PRECAUTIONS – MONITORING AND LABORATORY TESTS, CYCLOSPORINE).
Cytochrome P450/3A4 Interactions: Limited published data suggest that somatostatin analogs might have an indirect effect in decreasing the metabolic clearance of compounds metabolized by cytochrome P450 (CYP450) enzymes, via suppression of growth hormone secretion. The possibility that pasireotide may exert such an indirect effect cannot be excluded based on available data. Caution should be exercised when administering pasireotide concomitantly with drugs possessing a low therapeutic index and which are metabolized mainly by CYP3A4 (e.g. quinidine).
Interactions with food have not been established.
Interactions with herbal products have not been established.
Interactions with laboratory tests have not been established.
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